Tiverton

Located right in the centre of Devon, Tiverton is the ideal base for exploring the whole county. Not only can you escape to the countryside, but you are also within east reach of Exeter and the towns and villages in between. 

What you need to know:

  • Home to the Grand Western Canal
  • One of the oldest settlements in Devon
  • Has links to the English Civil War

Explore Tiverton

Things to do in Tiverton

Being located in Mid Devon, you are surrounded by miles of countryside, making Tiverton a haven for anyone who likes walking breaks.

The town’s biggest draw is its diverse history and heritage, which can be discovered at the town museums and castle and of course, the only remaining horse drawn barges in the UK.

If you love history, Tiverton is a great choice for a break in Devon. You can visit Tiverton Castle which has stood in the town since 1106, Bickleigh Castle which has moated gardens and Knightshayes Court, one of the National Trust properties in Devon. The house is a real gem, with wonderful architecture and Medieval style interiors. The décor amazing and is well worth the visit when in town.
Other heritage attractions include Tiverton Museum of Mid-Devon Life where you can find galleries full of the town’s social and industrial heritage. The Grand Western Canal, which sits on the edge of the town, runs for 11 ¾ miles and is a popular beauty spot. Stroll or cycle along the towpath keeping your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including dragonflies, moorhens and kingfishers. Take a trip along the canal on the Tiverton Canal Co.’s horse drawn barge or pick up a day permit and enjoy a paddle on the water at your own pace on a canoe, kayak or paddleboard.

Tiverton’s History and Heritage

Tiverton is one of the oldest settlements in Devon, there is evidence of human occupation as far back as the Stone Age and digs in the town have discovered Iron Age hill forts and Roman camps.

Tiverton was part of the inheritance of King Alfred’s youngest son and when the Domesday Book was published in 1086, it listed William the Conqueror as the tenant in chief. Later, Henry I chose it as a strategic site for a castle, resulting in the building of Tiverton Castle, which was first built in 1106.

The castle became a point of contention in the English Civil War in 1645. Tiverton Castle was held by the Royalists and was sieged by Parliamentarian force.

Perhaps the biggest evidence of Tiverton’s history stems from the Industrial Revolution – which can be enjoyed by visiting the Grand Western Canal or hitching a ride with one of the horse-drawn barges, which follows much of the same route that coal and other goods did during the 18th and 19th centuries.

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